Freedom & Collaboration at Lumiar
Lupe Cuellar
A typical elementary school day in the United States begins around 8 a.m: The day usually starts with a morning meeting or “circle time”, where the class reviews the schedule and sets a positive tone for the day. Throughout the day, learning tends to be teacher-directed, focusing on standardized curriculum goals and measurable academic outcomes. While there are moments of creativity (like art or music), much of the day emphasizes quiet work, following rules, and preparing for assessments.
Visiting Lumiar, it’s immediate the feeling that the school isn’t a typical elementary school. While the walls were similarly draped with student artwork, the school operates with a progressive and student-centered model unlike the typical standardization. Seeing young children gather in small groups in the hallway without supervision showcased Lumiar’s radically different vision of emphasizing student autonomy, creativity, and real-world learning. The architecture itself encourages freedom and collaboration: Modular tables and cushions replace rigid seating, allowing students to gather in circles and work in small groups. There are no conventional grades; instead, learning is personalized and competency-based. Adults at Lumiar serve as tutors and masters rather than traditional instructors, guiding rather than dictating the learning process.
While Lumiar’s progressive design is inspiring and intentionally student-centered, it’s important to recognize that such a model may not be accessible or comfortable for everyone, especially for first-generation students or those from marginalized backgrounds. Families may feel disconnected or unsure about how to support their children’s learning in a system that does not mirror the education they knew. This can unintentionally widen gaps in confidence, participation, or perceived belonging. Ultimately, the success of such a model depends not just on its philosophy, but on its ability to meet diverse learners where they are, honoring their backgrounds while helping them discover new ways of engaging with knowledge.
You can read more about Lumiar here https://lumiaredu.com/?page_id=7025
